Butterfly Cut vs Wolf Cut: What is the Difference?

If you love trendy, layered haircuts, chances are you’ve seen the butterfly cut and the wolf cut all over Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest. Both styles are bold, stylish, and full of personality but they’re not the same. So how do you choose between them?

In this guide, we’ll break down Butterfly Cut vs Wolf Cut, explain how they look on different hair types, and help you decide which one truly fits your vibe.

Butterfly Cut vs Wolf Cut: Quick Takeaways

• The butterfly cut combines short and long layers, offering movement and volume without sacrificing length.
• The wolf cut features choppy, shaggy layers for a bold, textured look inspired by ’80s edge and modern rock-star vibes.
• Both cuts call for layers, volume, and personality, but they serve different style goals and maintenance levels.
• Styling, hair texture, and maintenance level matter when choosing between these two viral haircut trends.

Butterfly Cut vs Wolf Cut: What’s the Difference?

At first glance, the wolf cut vs butterfly cut debate can be confusing because both rely heavily on layered hair. The difference lies in how those layers are shaped and styled. Read below:

What Is a Butterfly Cut?

The butterfly cut is known for its soft, floating layers that resemble butterfly wings when styled. It’s elegant, flattering, and incredibly wearable. If you look back to ’90s glam, with Rachel Green from Friends as the prime example, you’ll notice the face-framing, voluminous layers that define what we now call the butterfly cut.

Key Features of a Butterfly Cut

• Light, feathery layers that don’t remove length
• Creates volume without making hair look thin
• Perfect for long layered haircuts
• Easy to style and grow out

For more indepth information, check out butterfly haircut variations!

Butterfly Cut on Different Hair Types

1. Butterfly Cut Curly Hair: This cut works beautifully on curls. The top layers reduce heaviness, while the longer layers let curls bounce naturally. It’s a great option if you want shape without frizz.

Following a best haircare routine, starting with a moisturizing Moehair shampoo and conditioner , helps keep curls defined without frizz.

2. Butterfly Cut Long Hair: Perfect for people who love length but want more movement. The hair looks fuller and more dynamic, even with minimal styling.
3. Butterfly Cut Short Hair: A softer option for short hair lovers who want layers without extreme texture.

Also Read: Why Is Everyone Opting the Butterfly Haircut With Bangs in 2026?

What Is a Wolf Cut?

The wolf cut, another trending haircut , is a mix of a shag and a mullet. It’s bold, textured, and intentionally messy. Celebrities like Billie Eilish and Miley Cyrus are often credited with popularizing the wolf cut in recent years. They have shown how versatile the look can be across different hair textures and lengths.

Key Features of a Wolf Cut

• Short layers at the top
• Longer, choppy ends
• Strong contrast between layers
• Best for statement looks

Wolf Cut Styles by Hair Length

1. Wolf Cut Short Hair: Sharp, edgy, and full of attitude. Great for people who want a confident, fashion-forward look.
2. Wolf Cut Long Hair / Long Wolf Cut: A softer take on the trend. The layers flow more naturally, making it easier to wear daily.
3. Wolf Cut Curly Hair: This style looks bold and expressive. Layers enhance curl shape and volume, especially when paired with a lightweight conditioner as part of a consistent best haircare routine .

Butterfly Cut vs Wolf Cut by Hair Type

Hair texture plays a huge role in how layered haircuts actually look and behave.

Butterfly Cut vs Wolf Cut Long Hair

• Butterfly cut keeps length and elegance
• Long wolf cut adds drama and texture

Butterfly Cut vs Wolf Cut Straight Hair

• Butterfly cut looks smoother and polished
• Wolf cut adds movement to straight hair

Butterfly Cut vs Wolf Cut Wavy Hair

• Butterfly cut enhances soft waves
• Wolf cut gives a beachy, undone vibe

Butterfly Cut vs Wolf Cut Curly Hair

• Butterfly cut = controlled, airy curls
• Wolf cut = bold, voluminous curls

Butterfly Cut vs Wolf Cut vs Hush Cut

You may also see comparisons like butterfly cut vs wolf cut vs hush cut (or wolf cut vs butterfly cut vs hush cut) on Reddit and TikTok.

• Hush cut: Subtle layers, Korean-inspired, very soft
• Butterfly cut: Feminine, voluminous, versatile
• Wolf cut: Edgy, bold, high-texture

Butterfly vs Wolf Cut: Which One Suits You?

When choosing between Butterfly Cut vs Wolf Cut, think about your daily routine, hair texture, and personal style. Both cuts are beautiful, just in very different ways.

Butterfly Cut vs Wolf Cut: Face Shape & Lifestyle Comparison

If you love elegant movement, go butterfly.
If you crave bold texture, go wolf.
And if you want both? A hybrid cut might be your perfect match!

Style Tip: No matter which cut you choose, the right products make all the difference. Moehair offers salon-approved solutions to help you style, maintain, and elevate your butterfly or wolf cut every day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is better, wolf cut or butterfly cut?
It depends on your style. Butterfly cuts are softer and easier to manage. Wolf cuts are bold and textured.

Q. Who should not get a butterfly cut?
If you prefer sharp, edgy styles or have extremely thin hair, it may feel too soft.

Q. What face shape does the wolf cut look good on?
Oval and heart-shaped faces look best with wolf cuts.

Q. Who should not get a wolf cut?
People who want low maintenance or very polished hair may struggle with it.

Q. Are butterfly cuts low maintenance?
Yes, they grow out beautifully and require minimal styling.

Q. Why are wolf cuts so attractive?
They look effortless, confident, and full of personality.

Q. Can I get a hybrid of both styles?
Yes! A butterfly wolf cut blends softness with edge.